Body conforming shirt-like holder and thermal article

ABSTRACT

A body conforming, reusable, washable, textile holder for removably holding at least one article in close bodily contact. The holder may be a wrap or tube constructed to enclose a portion of the body where the article is to be held. The article may be a therapeutic article, such as a heat generating thermal pack, a cooling pack, or other article comprising a therapeutic agent; an absorbent article; a sensing article; or a filter article. The invention also relates to a system comprising the body conforming holder and an article for use therewith, and a method for holding such an article in close bodily contact by wearing the holder.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a body conforming, reusable, washable,textile holder for removably holding at least one article in closebodily contact. More particularly, the invention relates to a reusablewrap or tube holder constructed to enclose a portion of the body wherethe article is to be held. The article may be a therapeutic article,such as a heat generating thermal pack, a cooling pack, or other articlecomprising a therapeutic agent; an absorbent article; a sensing article;or a filter article. The invention also relates to a system comprisingthe body conforming holder and an article for use therewith, and amethod for holding such an article in close bodily contact by wearingthe holder.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A common method of treating acute, recurrent, and chronic pain is by thetopical application of heat to the afflicted area. Such heat treatmentsare used as therapy for aches, stiffness in muscles and joints, nervepain, rheumatism and the like. The method for relieving pain ofteninvolves topically applying a relatively high heat, e.g., greater thanabout 40° C., for a short period of time, such as from about twentyminutes to about one hour.

Combinations of elastic wraps and heating pads are available fortreating pain. Many of these combination devices use hot water bottles,hot packs, and the like, and are reusable by heating the contents, suchas water and/or microwaveable gels. Many such heating devices thatrequire the thermal source to be replenished are inconvenient to use ona regular or extended basis. Further, the heat energy may not beimmediately available when needed or released in a controllable manner.Such thermal devices may not provide long lasting heat or maintain aconsistent temperature over long periods of time. Proper positioning ofthe thermal source also may not be maintainable during use. Thetherapeutic effects from the administration of heat diminish after theheat source is removed.

Disposable heat packs based on iron oxidation, such as those describedin U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,366,804, 4,649,895, 5,046,479 and Re. 32,026, areknown. However, many of these devices are bulky, cannot maintain aconsistent and controlled temperature, have difficulty staying in placeduring use, and/or have unsatisfactory physical dimensions that hindertheir effectiveness. Such devices cannot be easily incorporated intowrap or tube holders that comfortably conform to various body contours.The devices may thus not deliver consistent, convenient and/orcomfortable heat application to the body.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,074,413, Davis, et al., discloses that maintaining asustained skin temperature of from about 32° C. to about 42° C. for aperiod of greater than about one hour substantially relieves acute,recurrent, and/or chronic pain, including skeletal, muscular, and backpain, and substantially prolongs relief even after the heat source isremoved from the body. The patent discloses disposable elastic thermalwraps comprising one or more thermal packs having a plurality of heatcells spaced apart and fixed within or to the structure of the thermalpack. While such disposable elastic thermal wraps can be efficacious,they are designed for single use and can be relatively expensive.

Thus, there is a continuing need for a more convenient, comfortable,reliable and cost effective holder for holding therapeutic and otherarticles in close bodily contact.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a heat delivery system comprising:

-   a) a body conforming, shirt-like, reusable, washable, textile holder    for removably holding at least one thermal pack in close bodily    contact, said holder being constructed to enclose a portion of the    body in need of treatment, and comprising an elastic region having a    Holding Force (HF-4.0) of greater than about 0.1 kgf and a Holding    Force (HF-2.5) of less than about 1.0 kgf; and-   b) at least one thermal pack capable of being removably held in    close bodily contact by said holder, said thermal pack comprising    one or more heat cells comprising an exothermic composition fixedly    attached to said thermal pack.

The invention also relates to a system as described above whereinwherein the holder is a wrap comprising at least two cooperatingfastening materials affixed to opposed surfaces of the holder that canbe positioned to removably enclose a portion of the body in need of heattreatment.

In another aspect, the invention relates to a system as described abovewherein the holder is a tube that can be positioned to enclose a portionof the body in need of heat treatment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a holder and system of the inventioncomprising a body conforming textile wrap holder and an article capableof being removably held in close bodily contact by the holder.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of another holder and system of theinvention comprising a body conforming textile wrap holder and anarticle capable of being removably held in close bodily contact by theholder.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the holder and article shown in FIG. 2with fastening materials partially engaged to close the holder.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a holder and system of the inventioncomprising a body conforming textile tube holder and an article capableof being removably held in close bodily contact by the holder.

FIG. 5 is a plan view of a holder and system of the invention comprisinga body conforming textile wrap holder and a thermal pack capable ofbeing removably held in close bodily contact by the holder.

FIG. 6 is a sectional exploded view of a portion of the holder andthermal pack of FIG. 5, taken along line 6-6.

FIG. 7 is a plan view of another holder and system of the inventioncomprising a body conforming textile wrap holder and thermal packscapable of being removably held in close bodily contact by the holder.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a holder and system of the inventioncomprising a body conforming shirt-like textile holder and articlescapable of being removably held in close bodily contact by the holder.

FIG. 9 is a rear view of the holder of FIG. 8 holding additionalarticles in close bodily contact.

FIG. 10 is a rear view of another holder and system of the inventioncomprising a body conforming shirt-like textile holder and articlescapable of being removably held in close bodily contact by the holder.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of another holder and system of theinvention comprising a body conforming textile wrap holder and a filterarticle capable of being removably held in close bodily contact over auser's mouth and nostrils.

FIG. 12 is a side view of the holder and filter article of FIG. 11 beingworn by a user.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of another holder and system of theinvention comprising a body conforming textile glove-like holder and anarticle capable of being removably held in close bodily contact by theholder.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The reusable, washable, textile holder of the invention is suitable forremovably holding one or more coordinated articles in close bodilycontact in a desired position or location on the body of a user. In oneembodiment, the body conforming holder removably holds one or morereplaceable, disposable heat generating thermal packs in close bodilycontact against a specific area of the user's body for pain relief orthermal comfort. The holder can be reused with a new article (e.g.,thermal pack) affixed to the holder when needed. As a result, the systemcomprising the holder and article can provide a desired level ofefficacy (e.g., heat) for a period of time, with a new article mountedto the holder whenever extended or repeated exposure time is desired. Inanother embodiment, the holder is intended for use with a therapeuticarticle comprising a therapeutic agent that can be delivered to alocation on the body in need of therapeutic treatment. In anotherembodiment, the holder removably holds an absorbent article in closebodily contact, such as for wound care. In still another embodiment, theholder is a face mask intended for use with a filter article to filterout objectionable contaminants. The holder may also be used to removablyhold a sensing article having a sensor operatively connected to thearticle in close bodily contact. The holder and article system can thusprovide effective and efficient heat or therapeutic agent transfer,wound care, filtering or sensing by holding and maintaining the articlein close bodily contact.

A reusable holder/replaceable thermal pack system herein can be used forrelieving pain in various places on the body, including lower back pain,arm or leg pain, e.g., in the thigh, knee, forearm, etc., and neck andshoulder pain. In another embodiment, the reusable holder/replaceablethermal pack system can be used for improving thermal comfort by heatingvarious body regions, including the center or core of the body, hands,feet, or head, etc. Alternatively, the holder can be used with a coolingarticle to provide cooling to the body. The holder can also be used withan article that delivers a therapeutic agent, such as an aromaticcompound, a pharmaceutical active, a lotion, an emollient, amoisturizing agent, or mixtures thereof, to the body. The reusableholders and replaceable articles herein are coordinated so as to havecompatible shapes, sizes, and flexibility in order to fit reliably andcomfortably against the body region where thermal, therapeutic or otherbenefit is desired.

While not intending to be limited by theory, it is believed that theelastic properties of the textile holder provide sufficient holdingforce to hold the article (e.g., a thermal pack) in close bodily contactthroughout a range of wearer motions. This sufficient, comfortable andreliable holding force often results in improved therapeutic activity orother performance benefits (e.g., more consistent heat transfer for moreeffective pain relief). Additionally, when the reusable holder andremovable article are designed and coordinated to work together, theresulting system can be optimized to provide consumer benefits such asmore effective heat transfer to more body areas, improved wearingcomfort, discreetness under clothing, better stay-in-place performance,and/or better cost effectiveness.

The invention thus also relates to a system comprising a reusable, bodyconforming holder and at least one coordinated article for usetherewith, for example, a therapeutic delivery system, a heat deliverysystem, an absorbent system, a sensing system or a filtering system. Theinvention also relates to a method for holding such an article in closebodily contact in a specific body region by wearing the holder. Thearticle has a size and shape compatible with the holder, and is capableof being held in close bodily contact in the desired body region by theholder. Typically, the article and the holder are designed andcoordinated to work together. As a result, the system provides improvedperformance (e.g., heat transfer and pain relief) and better wearingcomfort and discreetness. For example, the heat delivery system of theinvention adapts to a wide variety of body contours, and providesconsistent, convenient, and comfortable heat application. The articleand holder of this system may be packaged in a common, bundled,coordinated, or associated package or packages, and may be sold as akit, for example a pain relief kit. The articles may also be soldseparately from the holder. Typically, replacement articles are soldseparately from the holder, with or without instructions for use withthe holder.

As used herein, the term “thermal pack” refers to a heating article thatis placed against or in proximity to the body in a specific region totransfer heat to the user's body for pain relief or thermal comfort. Theterm “thermal pack” is intended to include various heat providingarticles, including thermal pack formulations and constructionsdescribed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,146,732, Davis, et al.; U.S. Pat. No.6,074,413, Davis, et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 6,336,935, Davis et al; and U.S.Pat. No. 6,020,040, Cramer et al.; all incorporated herein by reference.Thermal packs typically comprise one or more heat cells comprising anexothermic composition fixedly attached to the thermal pack.

The term “heat cell” refers to a unified structure comprising anexothermic composition, typically having specific iron oxidationchemistry, enclosed within at least two layers. At least one layer maybe oxygen permeable, capable of providing long lasting heat generationwith temperature control, and have specific physical dimensions and fillcharacteristics, such as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,918,590, Burkett,et al., incorporated herein by reference. Typically, these heat cellsare fixedly attached to the thermal pack.

The term “disposable” refers to articles that are intended to bediscarded after a single use or a few uses (i.e., they are not intendedto be restored and/or reused after the article has been fully expended).Such structures may be recycled, composted or otherwise disposed of inan environmentally compatible manner.

The term “reusable” refers to articles, such as the holders herein,intended to be reused. The articles may be cleaned, laundered orotherwise restored and/or reused after use.

The reusable holder/disposable article system of the present inventionmay comprise one or more articles mounted to the holder at the sametime. However, for clarity, a holder/article system comprising a singlearticle may be described herein.

The holder of this invention is comfortable to wear notwithstanding theclose conformity of the holder and article to the wearer's body. It isbelieved that the sufficient and comfortable holding force provided bythe holder is due at least in part to the force exerted by the elasticmaterial used in the holder. The holder can be characterized ascomprising an elastic region, and often more than one elastic region,with a moderate to low Holding Force (HF) value at a given extensiondistance when measured as described herein, and a relatively highavailable stretch as worn. In contrast, previous holders have oftenattempted to hold an article to a body area by using materials ofrelatively high stretch modulus that hold an article using a tightoverall fit. Such high modulus holders are often characterized as havinghigh contractive forces, relatively low available stretch, and stretchproperties in only one direction. Holders of these types generally havehigh Holding Force values at a given extension distance, and are oftendescribed as uncomfortable or are unable to maintain the article inclose bodily contact, especially with body motion.

The elastic region of the holder herein cooperates with other regions sothat the holder as worn provides a comfortable but sufficient holdingforce to hold the article against the body. Without being bound bytheory, it is believed that the holding force provided by the holder isdue at least in part to the compressive holding force provided by thestretch material in the holder. When the holder is stretched in use, thematerial exerts compressive forces to hold the article closely againstthe wearer's body. This conformity is maintained over a wide range ofbody movement. The holding force is great enough to hold the article inclose bodily contact, but generally is not great enough to cause wearerdiscomfort. Material of the elastic region typically has moderate to lowstretch modulus and provides relatively high available stretch as worn.This high available stretch, typically in both the lateral andlongitudinal directions, combined with sufficient but relatively lowholding force, helps to maintain the article in close bodily contactacross a range of body sizes, article sizes, and body motions.

In one embodiment, the holder comprises an elastic region having aHolding Force (HF-4.0) of greater than about 0.05 kgf, typically greaterthan about 0.1 kgf, as measured by the Holding Force method presentedherein. In another embodiment, the holder comprises an elastic regionhaving a Holding Force (HF-4.0) of greater than about 0.2 kgf, typicallygreater than about 0.3 kgf. The elastic region typically also has aHolding Force (HF-1.0) of less than about 1.0 kgf. The elastic regiontypically has a Holding Force (HF-2.0) of less than about 1.0 kgf, andtypically has a Holding Force (HF-3.0) of less than about 1.0 kgf. Inone embodiment, the holder comprises an elastic region having a HoldingForce (HF-4.0) of less than about 1.0 kgf, and typically having aHolding Force (HF-5.0) of less than about 1.0 kgf, more typically lessthan about 0.8 kgf. In another embodiment, the holder comprises anelastic region having a Holding Force (HF-5.5) of less than about 1.0kgf, more typically less than about 0.8 kgf.

The elastic region of the holder can comprise any woven material, knitmaterial, nonwoven material (with stretch incorporated as known in theart), or the like that possesses the requisite physical properties.Similarly, the holder can comprise one material or a combination ofmaterials, stitching, and/or design patterns that collectively possessthe requisite physical properties. The elastic region can be cut to anappropriate shape and size, and joined to the remaining portions of theholder. In one embodiment, the elastic region of the holder is whollyplain knit, typically jersey knit, from a combination of elasticallyextensible and non-elastically extensible yarns. The elastic propertiesof the individual yarns and the particular knitting pattern can be usedto define the mechanical properties of the holder. The holder typicallycomprises knit material and elastomeric fiber material. In oneembodiment, the holder comprises wholly plain knit, e.g., jersey knit,using elastomeric fiber material such as Lycra® or spandex yarn havingsuitable mechanical properties in all courses. Other knitting patternsand alternative yarns can be used to provide the desired mechanicalproperties. Suitable yarns include natural yarns, such as cotton yarnsand wool yarns, and synthetic yarns, such as nylon yarns, polyesteryarns, acrylic yarns, and combinations thereof, e.g., nylon yarns andcotton yarns. Typically, elastomeric fiber material such as Lycra® orspandex yarns are used with these natural and/or synthetic fibers toprovide the desired stretch properties. In one embodiment, the elasticregion of the holder comprises from about 5% to about 30%, typicallyfrom about 10% to about 25%, more typically from about 15% to about 20%,of the elastomeric fiber material, e.g., Lycra®. For example, theelastic region of the holder may comprise from about 80% to about 85%nylon yarn and from about 15% to about 20% of Lycra®.

While the article attachment region of the holder need not comprise anelastic material, it is typically extensible in both the longitudinaland lateral directions. Such elastic extensibility enables the holder tofit a variety of bodily shapes and sizes and provides good conformity toa wearer's body. The mounting region and article attachment regioncooperate with the elastic region of the holder to provide sufficientholding force to hold the article in close bodily contact throughout arange of wearer movements. Such a force helps maintain the article wornwith the holder in close bodily contact. In one embodiment, the elasticregion(s), mounting region(s), and the article attachment region(s) ofthe holder are made of the same material, typically a knit material asdescribed above. The holder may comprise at least one additionalextension, panel, or other structure extending beyond or attached to theabove regions so long as it does not significantly interfere with thefunction of the holder.

While the present invention encompasses a wide variety of holder designsto fit various regions of the body with coordinated articles, it willoften be described in terms of a holder comprising a material ofrelatively high stretch and moderate to low stretch modulus, used inconjunction with an article such as a therapeutic article, particularlya heat generating thermal pack. FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of sucha holder 10 of the invention in the form of a wrap in a full flat outposition. The holder comprises elastic regions 12, a mounting region 14,and an article attachment region 16. In one embodiment, elastic regions12 are elastic in both the lateral and longitudinal directions.

The holder 10 has a longitudinal centerline L and a lateral centerlineT. The term “longitudinal” refers to a line, axis or direction in theplane of the holder that is generally elongated to accommodate fitaround a body region. The term “lateral” refers to a line, axis ordirection that lies within the plane of the holder that is generallyperpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The elastic regions 12 areformed from a material of relatively high stretch and moderate to lowstretch modulus. Such a wrap holder design could be worn around thewaist region of a user to relieve lower back pain.

The holder 10 can comprise woven fabrics, knit fabrics, or specialnonwoven fabrics (with stretch incorporated as known in the art), buttypically comprises a knit fabric. Other materials having the requisitemechanical properties are also suitable. The holder is designed to bereusable, but typically is disposed of after a period of time (e.g.,about 4 to 8 months depending on the amount of use) when it begins tolose elasticity or otherwise shows wear. When the holder is a knitfabric, the mechanical properties of the various components can beprovided by a combination of the knit pattern used for a particularcomponent and the yarns that are used. In one embodiment, the stretchproperties of the elastic regions 12 of the holder are derived from knitmaterials known in the art. In one example, the elastic regions 12,mounting region 14, and article attachment region 16 are wholly knit.The holder typically comprises material having a basis weight similar toconventional undergarments in order to provide a desired “sheerness”.This relatively low basis weight and sheerness facilitates wearing thedelivery system comfortably and discreetly under outer garments.

The holder 10 is constructed to be reused and incorporates one or moreareas, such as mounting region 14, to which a replaceable article can beremovably mounted. The holder can be used with a wide variety ofremovable, replaceable, and typically disposable articles, includingarticles capable of delivering therapeutic agents, heat or cooling,absorbing body discharges, filtering undesirable particles, or sensing acondition on the body. In FIG. 1, article 20 comprises a body facingside 21, a side 22 opposite the body facing side, and a component 23located at least partially between sides 21 and 22, such as a heating,cooling or other therapeutic agent, an absorbent component, or a sensingcomponent. The body facing side and the opposite side are typicallyarranged to form a unitary structure.

Article 20 is removably mounted to holder 10 by employing a hook andloop fastening system. For example, the holder may comprise a firstfastening material that cooperatively engages a second fasteningmaterial on the article and enables the article to be removably affixedto the holder. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, loop fastener portion24 is securely affixed to a surface of holder 10, e.g., by gluing it tothe surface of the holder. Alternatively, the loop fastener portion canbe an integral part of the holder. For example, the holder or a portionthereof may be made of a material that can function as a loop fastenerportion, such as a knit material. Hook fastener portion 25 is securelyaffixed to article 20, e.g., by gluing it to the article. Article 20 canbe securely, but removeably, affixed to holder 10 by engaging hookfastening portion 25 and loop fastening portion 24. In this embodiment,holder 10 is constructed to hold article 20 in a selected location. Inthe alternative embodiment described above where the loop fastenerportion is an integral part of the holder, the article may be affixed toany suitable portion of the holder comprising the loop material. Whenarticle 20 is expended or is otherwise being replaced, a new articlecomprising a hook fastener portion can be mounted to the holder in theselected location or a desired position on the holder. In anotherembodiment, article 20 is removably affixed to holder 10 using anadhesive material. For example, pressure sensitive adhesives known inthe art may be used. Cohesive-adhesive fastening systems, such asdescribed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,415,650, Sigl, et al., incorporated hereinby reference, are also suitable for use herein.

Holder 10 comprises a fastening system to enable it to be affixed to alocation on the user's body in a manner that allows article 20 tooverlie the desired body area. While various fastening means can beused, FIG. 1 depicts the use of a reclosable hook and loop fasteningsystem comprising hook fastening portion 26 and loop fastening portion28. In this embodiment, hook fastener portion 26 is mounted along anedge of holder 10, typically on the same surface to which loop fastenerportion 24 is mounted. Loop fastener portion 28 is affixed to holder 10on the opposed surface thereof. Hook and loop fastening portions 26 and28 can be positioned to removably enclose the portion of the body inneed of treatment. By employing this construction, holder 10 can beeasily and securely mounted to virtually any location on the body of theuser.

Once article 20 is mounted to holder 10 in the desired position, thearticle is placed in contact with the body area to be treated. Holder 10can then be wrapped around that portion of the body, with the end of theholder bearing fastener portion 26 being wrapped around the body portionas the final step. The system is secured to the body by bringing thesurface of fastener portion 26 into contact with the exposed surface offastener portion 28, enabling the hook and loop fastening members toengage. The system is thus securely affixed to the body of the user witharticle 20 overlying the area to be treated. As will be apparent to oneof ordinary skill in the art, while the components depicted in FIG. 1are presented as simple rectangular shapes, the system can beconstructed in any desired width or length or in any shape orconfiguration in order to be securely mounted to the desired bodylocation.

In one embodiment, article 20 is a heating article such as a thermalpack, or a cooling article such as a cooling pack. The heating orcooling article may be any heat generating or cooling pack known in theart, and may be available in various sizes and constructions. Thethermal pack typically comprises a porous pad of non-woven materialincorporating chemicals that will react exothermically in the presenceof oxygen. In other constructions, different chemicals are maintained inseparate chambers that rupture upon use so that the chemicals areintermixed to produce the exothermic reaction. Any such exothermic padscan be employed to achieve the therapeutic heat benefit.

In another embodiment, article 20 in FIG. 1 is a therapeutic article,and component 23 is or comprises a therapeutic agent. Typically, theside 22 is liquid impervious. Both the article and the holder typicallyare vapor permeable, and the article is disposable. Such a therapeuticarticle is designed to provide the desired therapeutic benefit bydelivering an effective level of therapeutic agent (e.g., heat) to theuser when the article is held in close bodily contact by the holder. Thetherapeutic agent typically is transferable to the wearer's body, e.g.,the skin, in an effective amount to provide a therapeutic benefit. Thetherapeutic agent may comprise an aromatic compound, a pharmaceuticalactive, a lotion, an emollient, a moisturizing agent, a heating agent, acooling agent, or mixtures thereof.

In another embodiment, article 20 in FIG. 1 is an absorbent articlecapable of being held in close bodily contact by the holder herein. Theabsorbent article comprises a liquid pervious body facing side (e.g.,side 21, which may be a topsheet), a liquid impervious side opposite thebody facing side (e.g., side 22, which may be a backsheet), and anabsorbent component located between the liquid pervious side and liquidimpervious side (e.g., component 23). Such an absorbent article can bedesigned to meet different absorbency needs ranging from an absorbentcapacity of less than about 5 grams of fluid to a capacity of more thanabout 10 grams of fluid, e.g., from about 0.1 to about 20, typicallyfrom about 1 to about 10, grams of fluid.

It should be understood that absorbent articles herein are not limitedto structures that have the above three primary components. Absorbentarticles can be provided that only have one or two of these components,or have additional components. For example, an absorbent article neednot have a topsheet if the body-facing surface of the absorbentcomponent is suitable for use as a topsheet. A liquid imperviouscomponent, such as a liquid impervious backsheet, can be joined to theother side of the absorbent component. Alternatively, an absorbentarticle can comprise an absorbent component that has a liquid perviousside and a liquid impervious side. The liquid impervious side can beprovided by treating the surface of the absorbent component to render itliquid impervious. The liquid pervious side of the absorbent articleherein is the body-facing surface of the article. The liquid perviousside typically comprises a standard nonwoven web. Suitable fibers usefulfor making such a nonwoven web include polyolefin and polyester fibers.The nonwoven web typically has a basis weight from about 20 to about 200grams per square meter, e.g., from about 30 to about 100 grams persquare meter.

The absorbent component may be manufactured from a wide variety ofmaterials commonly used in absorbent articles. The absorbent componenttypically is adapted to have the capacity specified herein. Examples ofsuitable absorbent materials include comminuted wood pulp; crepedcellulose wadding; meltblown fibers; synthetic fibers such as crimpedpolyester fibers; tissues including tissue laminates; absorbent foams;absorbent sponges; superabsorbent polymers; absorbent gelling materials;cotton cloth; or any similar material or combinations of materials. Theconfiguration and construction of the absorbent component may also bevaried. For example, the absorbent component may have varying caliperzones, e.g., it may be profiled to be thicker in the center, or it maycomprise hydrophilic gradients, superabsorbent gradients, or one or morelayers or structures.

The backsheet of the absorbent article herein can be any suitableflexible, liquid impervious material. Typically, the backsheet is apolyethylene film having a thickness of from about 0.013 mm to about0.05 mm. Suitable polyethylene films are manufactured by ClopayCorporation under the designation P18-0401 and microflex 1401. Further,the backsheet may permit vapors to escape from the absorbent component(i.e., it may be breathable) while still preventing exudates frompassing through the backsheet. A suitable microporous film is suppliedby Exxon Chemical USA, and described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,777,073, Sheth,incorporated herein by reference.

The topsheet, the backsheet, and the absorbent component may beassembled in a variety of configurations known in the art, includinglayered or “sandwich” configurations. In one embodiment, the absorbentarticle is assembled in a sandwich construction in which the topsheetand the backsheet have length and width dimensions generally larger thanthose of the absorbent component. The topsheet and the backsheettypically extend beyond the edges of the absorbent component to formportions of the periphery. The body facing side and opposite side aretypically arranged to form a unitary structure. Both the absorbentarticle and the holder typically are vapor permeable, and the article isdisposable after the absorbent is usefully expended. The absorbentarticle may be designed specifically for wound care, or it may bedesigned for absorbing other body fluids, such as perspiration. In oneembodiment, the absorbent article may also comprise a therapeutic agentthat is transferable to the wearer's body, e.g., the skin, in aneffective amount to provide a therapeutic benefit. The therapeutic agentmay comprise an aromatic compound, a pharmaceutical active, a lotion, anemollient, a moisturizing agent, a heating agent, a cooling agent, ormixtures thereof. Absorbent articles useful herein are described in U.S.Pat. Nos. 5,383,869, 5,575,786,4,950,264, and 5.009,653, Osborn III, allincorporated herein by reference.

In another embodiment, article 20 in FIG. 1 is a sensing article capableof being held in close bodily contact by the holder. The articlecomprises a sensor operatively connected to the article with the sensorbeing capable of detecting a condition on the body. For example, thesensor may be capable of detecting various target entities, includinginputs that correlate to biological analytes, etc., such as described inU.S. Pat. No. 6,570,053, Roe, et al.; and U.S. Pat. No. 6,713,660, Roe,et al.; both incorporated herein by reference. The sensor may beintegral with or separate from the article. Sensor input may include achange in pressure, an electrical signal, or a motion, or combinationsthereof. In one embodiment, such as described in U.S. Pat. No.6,713,660, Roe, et al., the sensor is a biosensor including at least onebio-recognition element, the biosensor being adapted to detect a targetbiological analyte on or about the wearer's skin. The bio-recognitionelement typically comprises a biologically reactive agent. The biosensortypically detects target biological analytes selected from the groupconsisting of pathogenic bacteria, colonic bacteria, viruses, parasites,bacterial toxins, fungi, enzymes, and combinations thereof. Thebiosensor may also detect target biological analytes associated with asystemic or skin health condition of the wearer prior to the onset ofclinically observable symptoms of the condition and which are above apre-defined threshold level. Both the sensing article and the holdertypically are vapor permeable, and the article is disposable.

FIG. 2 shows another method for mounting a replaceable article to aholder of the invention. The article may be a heating article, a coolingarticle, a therapeutic article, an absorbent article, or a sensingarticle, such as described above. In this embodiment, holder 30 is inthe form of a wrap in a full flat out position. Holder 30 compriseselastic regions 31 and a pocket 32 affixed to the holder for receivingand supporting article 34, allowing it to be removably mounted to theholder. The pocket may be integrally formed in the holder, or it may beseparately attached to the holder, e.g., by sewing, gluing or usingmechanical fasteners. The pocket may have an opening, such as opening33, or it may be made of mesh material to allow direct or substantialcontact between the article and the portion of the body being treated.Alternatively, the pocket may be on the outside of the holder (the sideopposite that shown in FIG. 2), and the pocket and/or the holder mayhave an opening therein so that the article is in direct or substantialcontact with the portion of the body being treated. When article 34 isexpended, it can be removed from the holder and a new article placedwithin the pocket. Article 34 may be secured within the pocket by theaddition of a mechanical or adhesive fastening system, but typically isretained by holder 30 in the pocket simply as a result of contractiveforces and friction. Alternatively, the article may be affixed to theholder by employing a mechanical or adhesive fastening system. In theembodiment shown, holder 30 also comprises hook fastener 36 and loopfastener 38 affixed to opposed surfaces of the holder that can bepositioned to removably enclose a portion of the body. The holder can besecured to the body in a manner similar to that described aboveregarding FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the holder 30 and article 34 shown inFIG. 2, with hook and loop fasteners 36 and 38 partially engaged toclose the holder, such as when it is placed around and removablyencloses a portion of the body. Article 34 is shown partially insertedin pocket 32, but typically would by fully inserted into the pocketbefore the holder is closed around a portion of the body.

FIG. 4 illustrates another holder 40 of the invention constructed in theform of a tube that can be positioned to enclose a portion of the bodywhere the article is to be held and removably hold the article in closebodily contact. The article may be a heating article, a cooling article,a therapeutic article, an absorbent article, or a sensing article, suchas described above. Holder 40 comprises elastic regions 41 and one ormore areas to which a disposable article is removably mounted. Asdescribed above, the article may be a therapeutic article, a heatingarticle such as a thermal pack, a cooling article, an absorbent article,a sensing article, or a filter article. In one embodiment, article 44 isremovably held in close bodily contact by holder 40 by inserting thearticle into pocket 42. As described above, the pocket may be integrallyformed in the holder, or it may be separately attached to the holder,e.g., by sewing, gluing or using mechanical fasteners. The pocket mayhave an opening, such as opening 46, or it may be made of mesh materialto allow direct or substantial contact between the article and theportion of the body being treated. Alternatively, the pocket may be onthe outside of the holder, and the pocket and/or the holder may have anopening therein so that the article is in direct or substantial contactwith the portion of the body being treated. Article 44 can be retainedby holder 40 in the pocket simply as a result of contractive forces andfriction. In another embodiment, a fastening system, such as a hook andloop fastener or an adhesive fastener, can be employed to removablymount article 44 to holder 40. Holder 40 can be formed from a circularknit elastic material of relatively high stretch and moderate to lowstretch modulus. The system can be secured to the body by pulling thetube-shaped holder 40, with article 44 mounted, over the body region tobe treated (e.g., leg, arm, finger, etc.).

FIG. 5 shows a plan view of another holder 50 of the invention in theform of a wrap in a full flat out position. Holder 50 comprises at leastone piece of flexible material, typically having a substantiallyrectangular shape, such as flexible material 51, having a longitudinalaxis L. In one embodiment, flexible material 51 comprises an elasticregion as described above. Flexible material 51 has a first end 52 and asecond end 53 and at least one such elastic region therebetween capableof being stretched along longitudinal axis L. Flexible material 51 alsohas a first edge 54 and an opposing second edge 55, with both edgesextending from first end 52 to second end 53. Flexible material 51further has a length, when in a relaxed or stretched state, as measuredin a direction parallel to longitudinal axis L from first end 52 tosecond end 53 that is great enough to encircle a user's body, typicallythe user's torso (e.g., waist), hip, upper arm, lower arm, upper leg, orlower leg, such that first end 52 overlaps second end 53. In oneembodiment, holder 50 is an elastic thermal back wrap.

In FIG. 5, a heating article such as thermal pack 60 is removablymounted to holder 50 by employing a fastening system 64, such as a hookand loop mechanical fastening system or an adhesive fastening system. Inone embodiment, a loop fastener portion is securely affixed to a surfaceof holder 50, e.g., by gluing it to the surface of the holder, while ahook fastener portion is securely affixed to thermal pack 60, e.g., bygluing it to the thermal pack. Alternatively, the loop fastener portioncan be an integral part of the holder. For example, the holder or aportion thereof may be made of a material that can function as a loopfastener portion, such as a knit material. Thermal pack 60 can besecurely, but removeably, affixed to holder 50 by engaging fasteningsystem 64, such as a hook and loop mechanical fastening system or anadhesive fastening system. In this embodiment, holder 50 is constructedto hold thermal pack 60 in a selected location. In the alternativeembodiment described above where the loop fastener portion is anintegral part of the holder, the article may be affixed to any suitableportion of the holder comprising the loop material. When thermal pack 60is expended, a new thermal pack comprising a hook fastener portion canbe mounted to the holder in the selected location or desired position onthe holder. In another embodiment, the thermal pack can be removablymounted to the holder by placing the thermal pack within a pocket on theholder. The thermal pack can also be removably affixed to the holderusing an adhesive material, such as a pressure sensitive adhesive or acohesive-adhesive fastening system as described in above.

Holder 50 comprises a fastening system to enable it to be affixed to alocation on the user's body in a manner that holds thermal pack 60 overthe desired body area and effectively employ the heat therapy providedby the thermal pack. While various fastening means can be used, FIG. 5depicts the use of a reclosable hook and loop fastening systemcomprising hook fastening portion 56 and loop fastening portion 57. Inthis embodiment, hook fastener portion 56 is mounted along an edge ofholder 50, typically on the same surface to which the lower portion offastening system 64 is mounted. Loop fastener portion 57 is affixed toholder 50 on the opposed surface thereof. Hook and loop fasteningportions 56 and 57 can be positioned to removably enclose the portion ofthe body in need of heat treatment. By employing this construction,holder 50 can be easily and securely mounted to virtually any locationon the body of the user.

Once thermal pack 60 is mounted to holder 50 in the desired position,the thermal pack is placed in contact with the body area to be treated.Holder 50 can then be wrapped around that portion of the body, with theend of the holder bearing fastener portion 56 being wrapped around thebody portion as the final step. The system is secured to the body bybringing the surface of fastener portion 56 into contact with theexposed surface of fastener portion 57, enabling the hook and loopfastening members to engage. The system is thus securely affixed to thebody of the user with thermal pack 60 overlying the area to be treated,delivering the desired heat directly to the pain zone. While thecomponents depicted in FIG. 5 are presented as simple shapes, the systemcan be constructed in any desired width or length or in any shape orconfiguration in order to be securely mounted to the body location whereheat therapy or thermal comfort is desired. Examples of wraps ofsuitable size and shape, as well as thermal packs useful herein, aredisclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,074,413 and 5,925,072, both incorporatedherein by reference. In one embodiment, wrap 50 is a thermal back wrapcomprising a lower flap portion, such as flap portion 65 extendingoutwardly from second edge 55, that is intended to position heat cellssuch as heat cells 62 low on the back of the user.

Thermal pack 60 may be any heat generating thermal pack known in theart, and may be available in various sizes, shapes, and constructions.Many different replaceable thermal packs can be used with the holder ofthe invention, including those described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,366,804;4,649,895; 5,046,479; 6,146,732; and 6,074,413; all incorporated hereinby reference. Such articles typically are configured to have acompatible shape and size to fit with the holder and so that the systemfits effectively against a specific body region where heating isdesired, e.g., the knee, elbow, neck, back, or abdomen. Typically, thethermal pack is vapor permeable and disposable after the useful heat hasbeen expended. The invention thus provides a system comprising a bodyconforming holder and a compatible thermal pack for use therewith. Whilenot intending to be limited by theory, it is believed that the system ofthis invention provides improved comfort or pain relief performancebecause the holder maintains the thermal pack in close bodily contact onthe wearer, and/or the thermal pack and holder are designed to worktogether in a coordinated manner to provide effective and efficient heattransfer.

The thermal pack typically comprises one or more heat cells, such asheat cells 62, which are fixedly attached to the thermal pack. The heatcells may be arranged in a pattern such as shown in FIG. 5. Heat cells62 apply heat energy to the user's body, such as the lower back, upperarm, lower arm, upper leg, or lower leg, when flexible material 51 issecured around the body. As shown in FIG. 6, the heat cells 62 aretypically constructed by forming a pocket 66 in base material 67. Pocket66 is then filled with an exothermic composition 68. A cover material 69is placed over pocket 66 and heat sealed to base material 67 around theperiphery of pocket 66, encapsulating exothermic composition 68 andforming the heat cell.

In some embodiments, such as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,146,732 Davis,et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 6,074,413 Davis, et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 6,336,935,Davis et al: and U.S. Pat. No. 6,020,040, Cramer et al.; allincorporated herein by reference, the thermal pack has a unifiedstructure comprising at least one continuous layer of a material. InFIG. 6, the base material 67 and the cover material 69 form continuouslayers. The individual heat cells 62 are spaced apart and fixedlyattached to or within the continuous layers. When heat cells fixedwithin or to the unified structure of the thermal pack are active, thatis at a heat cell temperature of from about 35° C. to about 60° C., thenarrow portion of the continuous layer(s) of material immediatelysurrounding each heat cell softens and acts as a hinge between the heatcells and between any remaining more rigid portion of the continuouslayer or layers, bending preferentially more than either the heat cellsor any cooler, more rigid portions. This provides good overall drapecharacteristics and conformity with body forms when heated, whilemaintaining structural support of the heat cells and/or preventingunacceptable stretching of structures of the continuous layer or layersduring processing or use.

The continuous layer or layers typically comprises a material that issemi-rigid at a temperature of about 25° C. and is less rigid at ahigher temperature. Different materials may be capable of satisfyingthese requirements provided that the thickness is adjusted accordingly.Such materials may include polyethylene, polypropylene, nylon,polyester, polyvinyl chloride, polyvinylidene chloride, polyurethane,polystyrene, saponified ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, ethylene-vinylacetate copolymer, natural rubber, reclaimed rubber, synthetic rubber,and mixtures thereof. These materials may be used alone or coextrudedwith a low melt temperature polymer, such as ethylene vinyl acetatecopolymer, low density polyethylene, and mixtures thereof. Suchmaterials are capable of containing the exothermic composition andlimiting oxygen flow into the pocket, and also provide sufficientrigidity to prevent the thermal pack from folding or bunching duringuse, preventing unacceptable stretching of structures of the continuouslayer during processing or use, and deterring easy access to the heatcell contents.

The continuous layer or layers of material typically comprisespolypropylene, and has a combined basis weight thickness of less thanabout 50 microns. Particularly suitable is a coextruded material havinga first side of polypropylene and a second side of a low melttemperature copolymer, such as EVA, having a total material thickness offrom about 20 microns to about 30 microns, available from Clopay PlasticProducts, Cincinnati, Ohio, as P18-3161. When the polypropylene/EVAcoextruded material is used, the polypropylene side is oriented to theoutside (i.e., away from the exothermic composition).

Good overall drape characteristics and/or conformity with various bodyforms, and/or increased structural support to the thermal pack, may alsobe achieved by selectively placing the heat cells into positions fixedwithin or to the unified structure of the thermal pack which aresufficiently close to block some or all possible axes across thematerial of the continuous layer(s) which otherwise would passuninterrupted between the heat cells, through the thermal pack, orselect regions thereof, to minimize or eliminate undesirable,uninterrupted fold lines. As a result, the continuous layer or layerstypically folds along a multiplicity of short interconnected fold linesoriented in a number of different directions relative to each other.Folding along a multiplicity of interconnected fold lines results inthermal packs that have good overall drape characteristics and readilyconform to various body forms.

In one embodiment, the thermal pack has a unified structure comprisingat least one continuous layer and a plurality of individual heat cellsspaced apart and fixedly attached to or within said at least onecontinuous layer. These heat cells are spaced apart from each other andeach cell functions independently of the rest of the cells. While theheat cells may comprise any suitable composition providing heat, such asexothermic compositions, microwaveable compositions, heat ofcrystallization compositions, and the like, the heat cell typicallycomprise a densely packed, particulate exothermic composition whichsubstantially fills the available cell volume within the cell reducingany excess void volume and minimizing the ability of the particulatematter to shift within the cell. Alternatively, the exothermiccomposition may be compressed into a hard tablet or slug before beingplaced into each cell.

The exothermic composition typically comprises a mix of chemicalcompounds that undergo an oxidation reaction during use. The mix ofcompounds typically comprises iron powder, carbon, a metal salt(s), andwater. Mixtures of this type react when exposed to oxygen, providingheat for several hours.

Suitable sources for iron powder include cast iron powder, reduced ironpowder, electrolytic iron powder, scrap iron powder, pig iron, wroughtiron, various steels, iron alloys, and the like, and treated varietiesof these iron powders. There is no particular limitation to purity,kind, etc. so long as the iron powder can be used to produceheat-generation with electrically conducting water and air. Typically,the iron powder comprises from about 30% to about 80% by weight, e.g.from about 50% to about 70% by weight, of the particulate exothermiccomposition.

Active carbon is also useful in the particulate exothermic composition.There is no limitation to the kinds of active carbon used. The activecarbon typically has superior water holding capabilities. Differentcarbons may be blended to reduce cost. Typically, the activated carbon,non-activated carbon, and mixtures thereof, comprise from about 3% toabout 25%, more typically from about 8% to about 20%, e.g. from about 9%to about 15%, by weight, of the particulate exothermic composition.

Metal salts useful in the particulate exothermic composition includesulfates such as ferric sulfate, potassium sulfate, sodium sulfate,manganese sulfate, and magnesium sulfate; and chlorides such as cupricchloride, potassium chloride, sodium chloride, calcium chloride,manganese chloride, magnesium chloride and cuprous chloride. The metalsalts often include sodium chloride, cupric chloride, and mixturesthereof. Typically, the metal salt(s) comprises from about 0.5% to about10%, more typically from about 1.0% to about 5%, by weight, of theparticulate exothermic composition.

The water used in the particulate exothermic composition may be from anyappropriate source. There is no particular limitation to its purity,kind, etc. Typically, water comprises from about 1% to about 40%, moretypically from about 10% to about 30%, by weight, of the particulateexothermic composition.

The exothermic composition typically is in the form of dry agglomeratedgranules, direct compaction articles, or mixtures thereof. Heat cellscomprising compaction articles can be made by direct compaction of thedry ingredients into granules, pellets, tablets, slugs, or mixturesthereof. Any conventional tableting machine and compression pressures,up to the maximum provided by the machine, can be used. The directcompaction article typically ahs a density of greater than about 1g/cm³.

Activation of each cell may be accomplished by injecting water or saltsolution, e.g., by needle, through the oxygen permeable layer into thehole or reservoir in the middle of the tablet or into the granularcomposition. Since the heat cell will begin to generate heat shortlyafter activation if exposed to oxygen in the air, the thermal pack isplaced into an oxygen impermeable package, which may be evacuated ofoxygen, and then sealed. Alternatively, water or salt solution can beadded to the exothermic composition prior to the application of thesecond continuous layer, which forms the heat cell.

The tablets/slugs can have any geometric shape consistent with the shapeof the heat cell, e.g., disk, triangle, square, cube, rectangle,cylinder, ellipsoid and the like, all or none of which may contain ahole through the middle or other reservoir. The heat cells typicallyhave a disk or ellipsoid shape. The tablet/slug may have a concaveconfiguration to the top and/or bottom of the tablet. The tablet/slugtypically has a hole perpendicular to and through the middle of the topand bottom of the tablet. A water-carrying material having hydrousproperty and flexibility such as a super absorbent material, a spongybody, paper, synthetic resin-foam, rubber, cellulose, and the like maybe placed in the hole or reservoir to gradually supply the water to thecompressed particulate composition to prolong the exothermic reaction.

The size of the compacted article is limited only by the size of thepunch and die available and/or used in the tableting machine, as well asthe size of the heat cell pocket. A compacted disk typically has adiameter of from about 0.2 cm to about 10 cm. A compacted article havinga geometric shape other than a disk may have a width at its widest pointof from about 0.15 cm to about 20 cm and a length at its longest pointof from about 1.5 cm to about 20 cm. The hole or reservoir should belarge enough to substantially hold the prescribed amount of water and/orthe water-carrying material. Typically, the hole has a diameter of fromabout 0.1 cm to about 1 cm. Each heat cell often has a similar volume ofheat generating material and has similar oxygen permeability means.However, the volume of the heat generating material, shape of the heatcell, and oxygen permeability may be different from heat cell to heatcell as long as the resulting cell temperatures generated are withinaccepted therapeutic and safety ranges for their intended use.

The finished heat cell can have any geometric shape, e.g., disk,triangle, pyramid, cone, sphere, square, cube, rectangle, rectangularparallelepiped, cylinder, ellipsoid and the like. The heat cellstypically have a disk shaped geometry having a cell diameter of fromabout 0.2 cm to about 10 cm and a height of from about 0.2 cm to about 1cm. Oxygen permeability can be provided by selecting materials for thefirst and second continuous layers forming the pockets, and/or coveringlayer, that have the desired permeability properties. The permeabilityproperties may be provided by microporous films or by films that havepores or holes formed therein. The formation of holes/pores may be viaextrusion cast/vacuum formation or by hot or cold needle aperturing. Thevelocity, duration, and temperature of the thermogenic oxidationreaction of the particulate exothermic composition can be controlled bychanging the area of contact with air and the oxygendiffusion/permeability.

In one embodiment, the thermal pack comprises at least one continuouslayer of a material that exhibits the thermophysical characteristicsspecified herein. The continuous layer(s) of such material(s) istypically included as one or both of the layers used to form the heatcells. Alternatively, the heat cells may be mounted individually or inone or more groups to one or more continuous layers of a material thatexhibits the thermophysical characteristics specified herein.

The finished disposable thermal pack is typically packaged in anair-impermeable package that prevents an oxidation reaction fromoccurring until desired, as described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,649,895,incorporated herein by reference. Alternatively, other means may also beused to prevent an oxidation reaction from occurring before desired,such as by placing air impermeable removable adhesive strips over theaeration holes in the heat cells. When the strips are removed, air isallowed to enter the heat cells and activate the oxidation reaction ofthe iron powder.

The thermal pack or other disposable article herein may further comprisean aromatic compound, a pharmaceutical active, a lotion, an emollient, amoisturizing agent, or mixtures thereof, to be delivered to the body,typically through the skin. For example, a pharmaceutical active such asdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,488,959, incorporated herein by reference,may be added to an article comprising a thermal pack. Aromatic compoundsinclude, but are not limited to, menthol, camphor, eucalyptus,benzaldehyde, citral, decanal, and aldehyde, and mixtures thereof.Pharmaceutical actives/therapeutic agents include, but are not limitedto, antibiotics, vitamins, antiviral agents, analgesics,anti-inflammatory agents, antipruritics, antipyretics, anestheticagents, antifungals, antimicrobials, and mixtures thereof.

FIG. 7 shows a plan view of another holder and system of the inventionin the form of an elastic thermal uniaxial joint wrap and a thermal packfor use therewith. Examples of uniaxial-joint wrap holders are suitablesize and shape, as well as thermal packs useful herein, are disclosed inU.S. Pat. Nos. 5,906,637 and 6,048,326, both incorporated herein byreference. In one embodiment, FIG. 7 illustrates a knee wrap in a fullflat out position. In another embodiment, the product can be used as anelbow wrap. Holder 70 comprises a substantially rectangular piece offlexible material 72 having a longitudinal axis L. Flexible material 72has a first end 73, a second end 74, a body portion 75 fixed betweensaid first and second ends, a first strap portion 76 and a second strapportion 77. At least one of the body portion, first strap portion andsecond strap portion comprises one or more elastic structures and iscapable of being stretched along longitudinal axis L. Flexible material72 has a length when in a relaxed or stretched state, as measured in adirection parallel to longitudinal axis L from first end 73 to secondend 74, which is great enough to encircle a user's knee or elbow.

The holder 70 further comprises a fastening system to hold it around auser's knee or elbow. The fastening system typically is reclosable. Thefastening system typically is fixedly attached near or to a least one ofthe first and second ends of the holder. In one embodiment, each of afirst strap portion 76 and a second strap portion 77 has at least onehook fastener portion 85 which can be independently fastened to loopfastener portion 84. Upon application of the holder to a knee, first end73 of first strap portion 76 encircles behind the user's leg above theknee, and first end 73 of second strap portion 77 encircles behind theuser's leg below the knee. The first ends of the first and second strapportions overlap the second ends 74 such that loop fastener portions 84engage hook fastener portions 85. Other fastening systems, includingadhesive fastening systems, can be used to securely affix the holder tothe knee. Similarly, a holder may be affixed to a user's elbow.Typically, first strap portion 76 and second strap portion 77 compriseelastic regions and exhibit elastic behavior when stretched in adirection parallel to longitudinal axis L.

Flexible material 72 further comprises a body portion 75. For a kneeholder, the width of body portion 75, measured in a direction transverselongitudinal axis L, typically is from about 15 cm to about 25 cm, moretypically from about 18 cm to about 23 cm, e.g., from about 19 cm toabout 21 cm. The width of upper strap portion 76 and lower strap portion77, measured in a direction transverse longitudinal axis L, is less thanthe width of body portion 75, and typically is from about 2.5 cm toabout 13 cm, more typically from about 4 cm to about 8 cm, e.g., fromabout 5 cm to about 7 cm.

Flexible material 72 further comprises an aperture 86 that aligns withthe wearer's patella or olecranon to establish a convenient locatingpoint for wrapping the wrap around the user's knee or elbow and to helpproperly position wrap 70 during use. At least one slit, such as slit88, extends substantially longitudinally, e.g., from aperture 86, toenable flexible material 72 to stretch transverse to the longitudinalaxis to accommodate bending of the user's knee or elbow. Slit 88 may beof any shape, but typically has a rectangular shape. For a knee holder,slit 88 typically is from about 15 cm to about 18 cm long.

In FIG. 7, at least one disposable thermal pack such as described above,e.g., thermal pack 80, is removably mounted to holder 70 by inserting itin a pocket 78 affixed to the holder. The pocket may be integrallyformed in the holder, or it may be separately attached to the holder,e.g., by sewing, gluing or using mechanical fasteners. The pocket mayhave an opening or it may be made of mesh material to allow direct orsubstantial contact between the thermal pack and body. Alternatively,the pocket may be on the outside of the holder, and the pocket and/orthe holder may have an opening therein so that the thermal pack is indirect or substantial contact with the body. When the thermal pack isexpended, it can be removed from the holder and a new thermal packplaced within the pocket. The thermal pack may be secured within thepocket by the addition of a mechanical or adhesive fastening system, buttypically is retained by the holder in the pocket simply by contractiveforces and friction. Alternatively, the thermal pack may be affixed tothe holder by employing a fastening system, such as a hook and loopmechanical fastening system or an adhesive fastening system. In oneembodiment, a loop fastener portion is securely affixed to a surface ofholder 70, e.g., by gluing it to the surface of the holder. A hookfastener portion is securely affixed to thermal pack 80, e.g., by gluingit to the thermal pack. When the thermal pack is expended, a new thermalpack comprising a hook fastener portion can be mounted to the holder inthe desired position.

FIG. 8 illustrates another holder and system of the invention comprisinga body conforming shirt-like holder for removably holding at least onetherapeutic article such as described above in close bodily contact. Theholder is constructed to enclose a portion of the body in need oftherapeutic treatment. The therapeutic article comprises a body facingside, a side opposite the body facing side, and a therapeutic agent.Typically, the side opposite the body facing side is liquid impervious.Both the therapeutic article and the holder typically are vaporpermeable, and the article is disposable. Such an article is designed toprovide the desired therapeutic benefit by delivering an effectiveamount of the therapeutic agent to the portion of the body in need oftreatment when the article is held in close bodily contact by theholder. The therapeutic agent typically is transferable to the wearer'sbody, e.g., through the skin, in an effective amount to provide thetherapeutic benefit. The therapeutic agent may comprise an aromaticcompound, a pharmaceutical active, a lotion, an emollient, amoisturizing agent, a hearing agent, a cooling agent, or mixturesthereof.

In FIG. 8, the shirt-like holder 90 is constructed in the form of a vest(i.e., without arm extensitions) comprising at least one elastic region91. A therapeutic article such as a thermal pack as described above,e.g., thermal pack 94, can be removably mounted to holder 90 byemploying one or more pockets, such as pocket 92. The pocket may beintegrally formed in the holder, or it may be separately attached to theholder, e.g., by sewing, gluing or using mechanical fasteners. Thepocket may have an opening or it may be made of mesh material to allowdirect or substantial contact between the article and body.Alternatively, the pocket may be on the outside of the holder, and thepocket and/or the holder may have an opening therein so that the articlemay be in direct or substantial contact with the body. In anotherembodiment, the therapeutic article is removably mounted to holder 90 byemploying a hook and loop fastening system. For example, the holder maycomprise a first fastening material that cooperatively engages a secondfastening material on the article and enables the article to beremovably affixed to the holder. In one embodiment, a loop fastenerportion is securely affixed to a surface of the holder, e.g., by gluingit to the surface. Alternatively, the loop fastener portion can be anintegral part of the holder. For example, the holder or a portionthereof may be made of a material that can function as a loop fastenerportion, such as a knit material. A hook fastener portion is securelyaffixed to the article, e.g., by gluing it to the article. The articleis securely, but removably, affixed to the holder by engaging the hookfastening portion and the loop fastening portion. In another embodiment,the article can be removably affixed to the holder using an adhesivematerial, such as pressure sensitive adhesives or cohesive-adhesivefastening systems known in the art.

In the embodiments described above employing at least one pocket orwhere a loop fastener portion is affixed to the holder, the holder isconstructed to hold the article in a selected location. In thealternative embodiment described above where the loop fastener portionis an integral part of the holder, the article with the affixed hookfastener portion may be affixed to any suitable portion of the holdercomprising the loop material. When the article is expended, a newarticle comprising a hook fastener portion can be mounted to the holderin the selected location or a suitable position on the holder. As shownin FIG. 8, thermal pack 94 can be securely held in close bodily contactto provide heat to the body region to be treated (e.g., back, neck,shoulder, abdomen, etc.). Employment of this system involves placing theholder 90, with thermal pack 94 removably mounted in pocket 92, on thetorso as customary depending on the precise shirt design.

Holder 90 further comprises fastening system 98, which can comprise hookand loop fasteners, buttons, a zipper, etc., to close the holder aroundthe user's torso. In one embodiment, holder 90 is a wrap and fasteningsystem 98 comprises at least two cooperating fastening materials e.g.,hook and loop fastening materials, affixed to opposed surfaces of theholder that can be positioned to removably enclose a portion of the bodyin need of therapeutic, e.g., heat, treatment. Alternatively, the holdermay be a tube, e.g., a pullover or T-shirt, which can be positioned toenclose a portion of the user's body, such as the torso, in need oftreatment. In such designs, thermal pack 94 can be removably mounted inthe chest and upper abdomen area using methods such as described aboveto provide improved thermal comfort by warming the center and core ofthe body. A fastening system 96, such as a hook and loop fastener or anadhesive fastener, can be employed to retain thermal pack 94 in pocket92.

FIG. 9 is a rear view of the holder 90 shown holding additionaltherapeutic articles, such as thermal packs 103 and 107 as describedabove, in close bodily contact. Holder 90 comprises elastic region 101and pockets 102 and 106. As described above, the pockets may beintegrally formed in the holder or they may be separately attached tothe holder, e.g., by sewing, gluing or using mechanical fasteners. Thepockets may have an opening or they may be made of mesh material toallow direct or substantial contact between the article and body.Alternatively, the pockets may be on the outside of the holder, and thepockets and/or the holder may have an opening therein so that thearticle may be in direct or substantial contact with the body. In thisdesign, thermal packs 103 and 107 are removably held in close bodilycontact by the holder by mounting them in pockets 102 and 106 to provideimproved thermal comfort to the upper and lower back areas. Fasteningsystems 104 and 108, such as a hook and loop fastener or an adhesivefastener, can be employed to retain the thermal packs in the pockets. Inother embodiments, hook and loop fasteners or adhesive materials can beused to removably affix the therapeutic articles to the holder.

FIG. 10 is a rear view of another holder and system of the invention. Inthis embodiment, body conforming shirt-like holder 110 comprises armextensions, which may be short sleeves as shown or longer sleeves.Holder 110 comprises elastic region 111 and pockets 112 and 118. Asdescribed above, the pockets may be integrally formed in the holder orthey may be separately attached to the holder, e.g., by sewing, gluingor using mechanical fasteners. The pockets may have an opening or theymay be made of mesh material to allow direct or substantial contactbetween the article and body. The pockets may be on the outside of theholder, and the pockets and/or the holder may have an opening therein sothat the article may be in direct or substantial contact with the body.Thermal packs 114 and 120, such as described above, are removably heldin close bodily contact by the holder by mounting them in pockets 112and 118 to provide improved thermal comfort to the upper and lower backareas. Fastening systems 116 and 122, such as a hook and loop fasteneror an adhesive fastener, can be employed to retain the thermal packs inthe pockets. In other embodiments, hook and loop fasteners or adhesivematerials can be used to removably affix the therapeutic articles to theholder.

FIG. 11 illustrates another holder and system of the invention. In thisembodiment, holder 130 is a wrap constructed in the form of a face maskfor removably holding at least one filter article, such as filterarticle 132, in close bodily contact over a user's mouth and nostrils.Holder 130 comprises at least one elastic region, such as elastic region131. The article typically is disposable. The filter article may furthercomprise a therapeutic agent, such as a pharmaceutical active. Suitablefilter articles herein are described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,928,657,incorporated herein by reference.

Filter article 132 can be removably mounted to holder 130 by employingfastening systems 134 and 136, which can be hook and loop fasteners oran adhesive fastener. In one example, the holder comprises a firstfastening material and the filter article comprises a second fasteningmaterial that cooperatively engages the first fastening material andenables the filter article to be removably affixed to the holder. In oneembodiment, the first and second fastening materials comprise mechanicalfastening material, e.g., hook and loop fasteners. Alternatively, thefilter article can be removably mounted to the holder by employing apocket, such as described above.

Holder 130 comprises an additional fastening system to enable it to beaffixed to the user's face. In one example, the holder comprises atleast two cooperating fastening materials affixed to opposed surfaces ofthe holder that can be positioned to removably enclose at least aportion of the user's head. While various fastening systems can be used,FIG. 11 depicts the use of a conventional hook and loop fastening systemcomprising hook fastening portion 138 and loop fastening portion 139.FIG. 12 is a side view of the holder and filter article of FIG. 11 beingworn by a user. The hook and loop fastening portions 138 and 139 areengaged so that the holder encloses a portion of the user's head. Theholder is thus constructed to securely hold the filter article in closebodily contact over the mouth and nostrils, enabling at least partialfiltering and removal of airborne contaminants, e.g., toxic andnon-toxic contaminants, biological contaminants, other contaminants, andmixtures thereof. In another embodiment, the holder is a tube that canbe positioned to enclose at least a portion of the user's head. Such atube may have a shape similar to holder 130 when fastening portions 138and 139 are engaged to close the holder.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of another holder and system of theinvention comprising a body conforming textile glove-like holder and anarticle capable of being removably held in close bodily contact by theholder. The article may be a heating article, a therapeutic article, anabsorbent article or a sensing article, as described above. In FIG. 13,holder 140 comprises at least one elastic region 141 and pocket 142 forholding the article, such as thermal pack 144. As described above, thepocket may be integrally formed in the holder or it may be separatelyattached to the holder, e.g., by sewing, gluing or using mechanicalfasteners. The pocket may have an opening or it may be made of meshmaterial to allow direct or substantial contact between the article andthe hand. In one embodiment, thermal pack 144 is removably held in closebodily contact by the holder by mounting it in pocket 142 to provideimproved thermal comfort to the hand. Fastening system 146, such as ahook and loop fastener or an adhesive fastener, can be employed toretain the thermal pack in the pocket. Alternatively, the article can beremovably mounted to the holder by employing fastening systems such ashook and loop fasteners or an adhesive fastener. For example, the holdercan comprise a first fastening material and the article as secondfastening material that cooperatively engages the first fasteningmaterial and enables the article to be removably affixed to the holder.In one embodiment, the first and second fastening materials comprisemechanical fastening material, e.g., hook and loop fasteners.

In another embodiment, the invention comprises a body conforming textileholder in the form of a sock or headgear, e.g., a hat or headband, andan article capable of being removably held in close bodily contact bythe holder. The article may be a heating article, a therapeutic article,an absorbent article or a sensing article, as described above. Theholder comprises at least one elastic region and may have at least onepocket for removably holding the article, e.g., a thermal pack, in closebodily contact such as described above. The pocket may be integrallyformed in the holder or it may be separately attached to the holder,e.g., by sewing, gluing or using mechanical fasteners. The pocket mayhave an opening or it may be made of mesh material to allow direct orsubstantial contact between the article and the body. If the pocket ison the outside of the holder, the pocket and/or the holder may have anopening therein so that the article is in direct or substantial contactwith the portion of the body being treated. A fastening system, such asa hook and loop fastener or an adhesive fastener, can be employed toretain the article in the pocket. Alternatively, the article can beremovably mounted to the holder by employing fastening systems such ashook and loop fasteners or an adhesive fastener. For example, the holdercan comprise a first fastening material and the article as secondfastening material that cooperatively engages the first fasteningmaterial and enables the article to be removably affixed to the holder.In one embodiment, the first and second fastening materials comprisemechanical fastening material, e.g., hook and loop fasteners. A suitableholder in the form of a sock is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,230,333,incorporated herein by reference. A suitable holder in the form ofheadgear is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,395,400, incorporated herein byreference.

It will be appreciated that holders herein may have other configurationsbesides those shown and described. For example, the holder may compriseone or more additional straps, panels, or cut-out areas. Other holderstyles, designs, and configurations that comprise at least an elasticregion and an article attachment region of suitable properties arewithin the scope of the invention. As described above, the holder maycomprise at least one extension or panel so long as it does notsignificantly interfere with the holding function of the holder.

The holders of the invention can be made by various methods known in theart. For a holder in the form of a tube, typically a blank for theholder is first knit in a tubular form using methods known to the art.For example, the elastic region, the article mounting region, and anyarticle attachment region can by integrally knit. Appropriate knitpatterns as described above can be used. Holder blanks can be formed bytransversely cutting the tubular blank in a predetermined repeat patternwherein a first transverse cut is made across the full width of theblank to form a top edge, and a second transverse cut is made across thefull width of the tubular blank to form a bottom edge. The holder can befinished by forming turned welt elasticized bands about the periphery ofthe openings. A holder in the form of a wrap can be constructed byknitting a flat blank for the holder and then cutting and sewing theblank using various methods known to the art. Alternatively, a wrapholder can be made by forming a tubular blank as described above andthen slitting the blank along one end. The ends and edges can then befinished, e.g., by sewing. A fastening system such as a reclosable hookand loop fastening system can be affixed along the ends of the holder,as described above.

The invention also relates to a method for treating acute, recurrent,and/or chronic pain, including muscular, skeletal, and/or referred pain,by topically applying heat to the afflicted body part of a personsuffering such pain, using the heat delivery system comprising a holderand thermal pack herein. The method comprises maintaining a skintemperature to the afflicted area of from about 32° C. to about 50° C.by applying the thermal pack(s) to the afflicted area, for from abouttwenty seconds to about twenty-four hours, typically from about twentyminutes to about twenty hours, e.g. from about eight hours to abouttwelve hours. The length of time of maintaining the skin temperaturewithin the above range may be selected by the person needing suchtreatment. The desired therapeutic benefits can thus be achieved withoutadverse events, such as skin burns that may be incurred by using a hightemperature for a long period of time. Typically, the method comprisesmaintaining a sustained skin temperature of from about 32° C. to about43° C., for a time period of greater than about 1 hour, typicallygreater than about 4 hours, e.g. about 24 hours, to substantiallyrelieve acute, recurrent, and/or chronic pain, including skeletal,muscular, and/or referred pain. The method may substantially prolongrelief, for example, for at least about 2 hours, typically for at leastabout 8 hours, more typically for at least about three days, from suchpain, even after the heat source is removed from the afflicted bodypart.

Test Method for Measuring the Holding Force (HF) of Materials Using A“Constant-Rate-of-Extension (CRE) Ball Force Test”

Overview: This method measures a force (HF) that is related to theholding force exerted by an extensible material when holding an articleagainst a wearer's body.

Terminology: The Holding Force (HF) is the force exerted by a materialwhen distending it with a force applied at right angles to the plane ofthe material, under the specified conditions. The angle of applicationof force and the area of the material upon which the force is appliedvaries continuously as the material stretches when tested as directed inthis method. In the Constant-Rate-of-Extension (CRE) tensile testingmachine, the rate of increase of the specimen length is uniform withtime.

Summary of Test Method: Set up the tensile testing machine forperforming this test in accordance with both the manufacture'sinstructions and procedures presented herein. A specimen of material issecurely clamped without tension within a “Ball Burst Test” attachment.A force is exerted against the specimen by a polished, hardened steelball attached to the tensile testing machine. Holding Force (HF) dataare recorded as a function of extension distance.

Apparatus: Tensile testing machine, of the constant-rate-of-extension(CRE) type. Equipment includes an Imada DPZ High PerformanceProgrammable Digital Force Gauge: Model DPZ-4, and an Imada MotorizedVertical Test Stand: Model MX-110-S Test Stand w/Digital Distance Meter,both available from Imada, Incorporated, Northbrook, Ill. The Force BallAttachment (modified “Ball Burst Test” attachment) consists of aclamping mechanism to hold the specimen and a steel ball attached to themoveable force gauge of the tensile testing machine. The circularopening and ring clamp has an internal diameter of 5.1 cm (2.0 in). Thepolished steel ball connected to the force gauge has a diameter of 1.6cm (0.62 in).

Sampling and Specimen Preparation: The specimen is taken from theelastic region of the holder. Clamp the specimen in the ring clamp ofthe apparatus. The specimen must be of sufficient diameter to be heldsecurely within the 5.1 cm (2.0 in) diameter ring clamp. The specimenmay not require cutting if there is ample room to securely clamp thespecimen in the apparatus. Ensure the specimen is free of folds,creases, or wrinkles, and is without tension when clamped. If thespecimen is not uniform (e.g., it has a pattern, stitching, or a seam,etc.), ensure that the area tested is representative of the elasticregion.

Procedure:

-   -   Place the specimen in the ring clamp, without tension, and        fasten securely.    -   Move the Force Ball to a position immediately adjacent the        specimen. Make sure there is no force applied to the ball by the        specimen (HF-0.0=0 kgf).    -   Set the distance meter to zero (0 cm elongation).    -   Start the CRE machine and maintain a speed of 25.4±10 cm/min        (10.0±0.5 in/min). Continue that speed until the specimen is        extended at least 6.5 cm (2.6 in) or until a force of 2.0 kgf        (4.5 lbf) is reached.    -   While the CRE machine and Force Ball are elongating the        specimen, record Holding Force and elongation data at 0.5 second        intervals.    -   Create a standard stress/strain curve (Holding Force versus        elongation distance) with the resulting data.    -   Determine Holding Force (HF) at the appropriate elongation        distances.    -   In the above method:    -   HF-0.0 is the force at 0 cm specimen elongation, i.e., the start        of data collection. HF-0.0 should be 0 kgf at 0 cm elongation.    -   HF-1.0 is the force (kgf) at 1.0 cm Force Ball extension        distance.    -   HF-2.0 is the force (kgf) at 2.0 cm Force Ball extension        distance.    -   HF-2.5 is the force (kgf) at 2.5 cm Force Ball extension        distance.    -   HF-3.0 is the force (kgf) at 3.0 cm Force Ball extension        distance.    -   HF-4.0 is the force (kgf) at 4.0 cm Force Ball extension        distance.    -   HF-5.0 is the force (kgf) at 5.0 cm Force Ball extension        distance.    -   HF-5.5 is the force (kgf) at 5.5 cm Force Ball extension        distance.

All limits and ranges specified herein include all narrower ranges,limits, and amounts that are within the specified limits and ranges, andsuch narrower ranges and limits may be claimed even though those limitsand ranges are not separately listed.

While particular embodiments of the present invention have beenillustrated and described, various other changes and modifications canbe made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Itis therefore intended to cover all such changes and modifications thatare within the scope of this invention.

1. A heat delivery system comprising: a) a body conforming, shirt-like,reusable, washable, textile holder for removably holding at least onethermal pack in close bodily contact, said holder being constructed toenclose a portion of the body in need of heat treatment, and comprisingan elastic region having a Holding Force (HF-4.0) of greater than about0.1 kgf and a Holding Force (HF-2.5) of less than about 1.0 kgf; and b)at least one thermal pack capable of being removably held in closebodily contact by said holder, said thermal pack comprising one or moreheat cells comprising an exothermic composition fixedly attached to saidthermal pack.
 2. A system according to claim 1 wherein both the thermalpack and the holder are vapor permeable.
 3. A system according to claim1 wherein the thermal pack is disposable.
 4. A system according to claim1 wherein the holder comprises knit material and elastomeric fibermaterial.
 5. A system according to claim 1 wherein the elastic region ofthe holder has a Holding Force (HF-3.0) of less than about 1.0 kgf.
 6. Asystem according to claim 1 wherein the elastic region of the holder hasa Holding Force (HF-5.0) of less than about 1.0 kgf.
 7. A systemaccording to claim 1 wherein the holder is constructed to hold thethermal pack in a selected location.
 8. A system according to claim 7wherein the holder comprises at least one pocket for receiving andsupporting the thermal pack.
 9. A system according to claim 1 whereinthe holder comprises a first fastening material and the thermal packcomprises a second fastening material that cooperatively engages thefirst fastening material and enables the thermal pack to be removablyaffixed to the holder.
 10. A system according to claim 9 wherein thefirst and second fastening materials comprise mechanical fasteningmaterial.
 11. A system according to claim 1 wherein the thermal pack isremovably affixed to the holder using adhesive material.
 12. A systemaccording to claim 1 wherein the holder comprises at least twocooperating fastening materials affixed to opposed surfaces of theholder that can be positioned to removably enclose the portion of thebody in need of heat treatment.
 13. A system according to claim 12wherein the fastening materials comprise mechanical fastening material.14. A system according to claim 1 wherein the thermal pack has a unifiedstructure comprising at least one continuous layer and a plurality ofindividual heat cells spaced apart and fixedly attached to or withinsaid at least one continuous layer.
 15. A system according to claim 1wherein the holder comprises arm extensions.
 16. A system according toclaim 1 wherein the holder has a vest-like design without armextensions.
 17. A system according to claim 1 wherein the one or moreheat cells comprise an exothermic composition in the form of dryagglomerated granules, direct compaction articles, or mixtures thereof,said compaction articles being granules, pellets, tablets, slugs, ormixtures thereof.
 18. A system according to claim 1 wherein the one ormore heat cells have a disk or ellipsoid shape.
 19. A system accordingto claim 1 wherein the one or more heat cells comprise a densely packedparticulate composition comprising iron powder, carbon, metal salt andwater, and said composition substantially fills the available cellvolume within the one or more heat cells.
 20. A system according toclaim 1 further comprising a therapeutic agent comprising an aromaticcompound, a pharmaceutical active, a lotion, an emollient, amoisturizing agent, or mixtures thereof.
 21. A heat delivery systemcomprising: a) a body conforming, shirt-like, reusable, washable,textile holder for removably holding at least one thermal pack in closebodily contact, wherein the holder is a wrap comprising at least twocooperating fastening materials affixed to opposed surfaces of theholder that can be positioned to removably enclose a portion of the bodyin need of heat treatment, and comprising an elastic region having aHolding Force (HF-4.0) of greater than about 0.1 kgf and a Holding Force(HF-2.5) of less than about 1.0 kgf; and b) at least one thermal packcapable of being removably held in close bodily contact by said holder,said thermal pack comprising one or more heat cells comprising anexothermic composition fixedly attached to said thermal pack.
 22. Asystem according to claim 21 wherein the elastic region of the holderhas a Holding Force (HF-3.0) of less than about 1.0 kgf.
 23. A systemaccording to claim 21 wherein the holder comprises at least one pocketfor receiving and supporting the thermal pack.
 24. A system according toclaim 21 wherein the fastening materials comprise mechanical fasteningmaterial.
 25. A system according to claim 21 wherein the one or moreheat cells comprise a densely packed particulate composition comprisingiron powder, carbon, metal salt and water, and said compositionsubstantially fills the available cell volume within the heat cells. 26.A heat delivery system comprising: a) a body conforming, shirt-like,reusable, washable, textile holder for removably holding at least onethermal pack in close bodily contact, wherein the holder is a tube thatcan be positioned to enclose a portion of the body in need of heattreatment, and comprising an elastic region having a Holding Force(HF-4.0) of greater than about 0.1 kgf and a Holding Force (HF-2.5) ofless than about 1.0 kgf; and b) at least one thermal pack capable ofbeing removably held in close bodily contact by said holder, saidthermal pack comprising one or more heat cells comprising an exothermiccomposition fixedly attached to said thermal pack.
 27. A systemaccording to claim 26 wherein the elastic region of the holder has aHolding Force (HF-3.0) of less than about 1.0 kgf.
 28. A systemaccording to claim 26 wherein the holder comprises at least one pocketfor receiving and supporting the thermal pack.
 29. A system according toclaim 26 wherein the one or more heat cells comprise a densely packedparticulate composition comprising iron powder, carbon, metal salt andwater, and said composition substantially fills the available cellvolume within the heat cells.